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Keeping things fresh in Waikiki

A La Carte

July 22, 2019

Story By: Caroline Wright | Photos by: Lawrence Tabudlo

Chicken Marsala ($21.95, part of Sunset 3-Course Special)

For some of Oahu’s most delectable Italian cuisine, served in a setting that inspires a sense that all is well with the world, Fresco Italian Restaurant at Hilton Hawaiian Village is a lovely place to enjoy a meal.

Fresco is just days away from unveiling updated menus that feature delicious new items. “On Aug. 1, we’re going to be updating our Signature Cocktails,” says manager Bruce Kodani. “With assistance from Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, we’ve created some modern, colorful new drinks.” Fresco’s award-winning Wine List will get an update as well.

Happy hour specials from bottom left, clockwise: Fried Calamari ($8), Caprese Salad ($8), Beef Tenderloin

A couple crowd pleasers will remain on the cocktail menu, including the Basil Limonata, with Bulldog gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh basil and lemon, and the Mango Sangria Fizz, with mango rum, orange and pineapple juice, mango puree and Prosecco. Cocktails are $8.

Chef Rodhel Ibay created Fresco’s Sunset 3-Course Special menu, available between 4 and 6 p.m., for parties of up to 10 guests. For just $21.95, this impeccable meal begins with a chopped salad starter of baby romaine, radicchio, Ho Farms tomatoes, and housemade Asian-style dressing.

Mango Sangria Fizz ($7 happy hour) with other Fresco happy hour specials.

Next, choose one of three entrees. Rich with Manila clams, jumbo shrimp, calamari, and mussels, and select trimmings from the day’s fresh catch, Spaghetti Alla Pescatora is tossed with red sauce or white wine butter sauce. Made with wild mushrooms, Marsala wine, and Parmesan, the Chicken Marsala is a second delectable option on the Sunset menu. The third is Fresco’s Chicken Alfredo with Pesto Cream, an island spin on the classic dish. “It has basil, but we use macadamia nuts instead of pine nuts,” says Ibay.

Dessert is Il Gelato sorbet in a rainbow of flavors: dragonfruit, lilikoi and mango.

Fresco’s second evening special, also available from 4 to 6 p.m., offers guests the opportunity to buy one entree and get 50 percent off an entree of equal or lesser value from the Dinner A La Carte menu. With 24 entrees to choose from, there’s something delightful for everyone. (Sorry, but specials cannot be combined with other coupons and discounts.)

Honolulu, HI 96815

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